Die aanvangsonderwyser as volwasse leerder

M.Ed. (Didactics)The beginning teacher doesn't start his teaching career as an educational expert. Although he is professionally qualified, his professional training doesn't fully equip him with all the required attributes necessary for an error-free start to his teaching career. The objective of this study is to scientifically acquire, by way of a literature study, information concerning individual shortcomings and lack of expertise attributable to the beginning teacher in practice. Attention has been given to the problems experienced by the beginning teacher when starting his teaching career in practice. His initial experience of the educational environment, as well as his development as person, educator, teacher and his position in the educational management situation are discussed. Due to the fact that he as an adult student exposes himself to an informal study situation to improve his teaching abilities, attention has been given to the specific qualities and problems the beginning teacher will be exposed to. The study also emphasised the importance of the support by more experienced teachers to the beginning teacher..